Pre-dawn glow over Riverside from the top of Mount Rubidoux—worth the early wake-up call. (Luke López)
Tuesday Gazette: May 27, 2025
Hello Riverside, and Happy Tuesday! Today’s forecast brings clear skies and a warm 82°F—just right for easing back into the week. If you're looking for a tasty midday break, head to the new Magnolia Farmers Market at Riverside Community Hospital. Seth stopped by recently—here’s what he ate and what you should try, too.
Perry Won't Seek Reelection After Three Terms on Council
Longtime Ward 6 representative reflects on career, hopes for successor as he prepares to step away from public office.
Longtime Ward 6 representative reflects on career, hopes for successor as he prepares to step away from public office.
Riverside's Ward 6 Councilmember Jim Perry will not seek reelection in 2026, giving potential candidates over a year to prepare for the race. Perry, a three-term representative, made the announcement to allow ample time for interested individuals to consider the responsibilities of public office.
Driving the news: Perry's decision stems from his belief that candidates need significant time to prepare for the rigors of campaigning and serving in public office.
He started planning his own campaign a year and a half in advance.
Why it matters: Ward 6, a minority-majority area in southwestern Riverside, will see new leadership after more than a decade under Perry's representation.
The ward includes neighborhoods such as Arlanza, La Sierra, and portions of Arlington.
The big picture: Perry's political journey began at 14 during the 1972 presidential campaign, leading to a career in law enforcement before entering public office.
He won his first election in 2013 with a strong majority in a six-candidate race.
What's next: Perry is focusing on addressing homelessness in his ward, particularly along the Magnolia Avenue corridor, during his final year in office.
He credits the city's Public Safety and Engagement Team (PSET) with making significant progress on homelessness issues citywide.
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